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First Look – 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe

Fastback Version of New GLE SUV on Its Way

Mercedes-Benz will soon introduce a fastback version of its all-new midsize SUV, starting with the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe. With sleeker styling than the outgoing GLE Coupe and all the technology of the conventional GLE, the AMG-branded SUV should be more attractive to fashion-conscious luxury consumers than ever.

Elegant GLE 53 Styling

The BMW X6 rival boasts a longer wheelbase than its predecessor but a 2.4-inch shorter wheelbase than the conventional GLE SUV, at 115.5 inches. The slightly squatter stance is compounded by a coupe-like fastback roofline, which pre-empts the regular GLE's optional third-row seat. The roof is much more attractive than the outgoing GLE Coupe's, which looked a bit hunchbacked when viewed in profile.

Other changes between the generations include a front clip that's all but identical to the one on the conventional GLE, enhanced with AMG-specific vertical grille bars and "A-wing" front bumper openings. The side profile is more graceful, with smooth body surfacing that echoes Mercedes' current, melted-candy styling language. And the rear view is dominated by more aggressive taillights than either the outgoing GLE Coupe or the all-new GLE sport-ute, and quad exhaust outlets hint at the GLE 53's performance potential.

Show, With Lots of Go

The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe is powered by the same 3.0L turbocharged I-6 as other 53-badged machines. Producing 429 hp and 384 lb-ft, the straight-six gets some assistance from Mercedes' EQ Boost 48V mild-hybrid system, which can contribute an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft for short periods, such as when initiating a passing maneuver or starting from a dead stop. We've experienced EQ Boost in several different applications, and its ability to smooth out transmission behavior, improve throttle response, and mitigate turbo lag is impressive. AMG claims a 0-60-mph time of 5.2 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph.

Variable-ratio, electric power steering helps control the GLE 53's exuberant power, as do high-performance brakesâ15.75-inch front rotors with two-piston fixed calipers and 13.6-inch rear rotors with one-piston floating calipers. AMG developed its parent company's Airmatic air suspension into AMG Ride Control, which is capable of continuously variable damping as prioritized by the GLE 53's drive-select settings. AMG Ride Control also offers automatic load leveling and adjustable ground clearance, lowering the vehicle by 0.6-inch when in Sport or Sport+ to provide improved aerodynamics and a lower center of gravity. Furthermore, the system can also raise the GLE 53 by 2.2 inches at speeds up to 43 mph, helping the SUV avoid large obstacles.

A sporty steering wheel sets the tone as soon as the driver settles in, trimmed as it is in black Nappa leather with red contrast stitching and a red hatch mark at the 12 o'clock position. It also features aluminum shift paddles for the nine-speed automatic transmission.

When and How Much?

Unfortunately, Mercedes hasn't committed to a model launch or pricing strategy for the GLE 53, and so far, it has only announced the six-cylinder AMG version of the GLE Coupe—no word of a M-B GLE 450 or an AMG GLE 63 Coupe. We'd be surprised if the company wouldn't want to launch a lower-cost model to compete with the base BMW X6 xDrive40i, but so far, only the AMG GLE 53 has been confirmed.

Nevertheless, with hybridized power and efficiency and sleek, AMG-chic styling, there's no reason to expect the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe to wave a white flag in the face of its BMW X6, Audi Q8, and Porsche Cayenne Coupe rivals.